Guide
Maime-no-ike is a beautiful pond located in the Norikura Kogen highlands of Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, at an altitude of approximately 1,450m. Surrounded by lush forests, the pond is famous for its mirror-like surface that reflects the surrounding mountains. One of its most iconic sights is the 'Upside-down Mt. Norikura,' where the snow-capped peak of Mt. Norikura is perfectly reflected in the water. The landscape changes beautifully with the seasons, offering particularly striking views during the autumn foliage season and during the early morning hours when a mystical mist often blankets the water.
This area is part of the Norikura Kogen highland region, where the unique high-altitude natural environment is carefully preserved. While there are no specific historical buildings at the pond itself, the area has long been cherished as a place to enjoy the raw beauty of nature. It forms part of a larger high-altitude ecosystem alongside nearby bodies of water such as Shinobu-no-ike and Osome-ike.
There are several major highlights to experience at Maime-no-ike. First is the 'Upside-down Mt. Norikura' reflection; on clear days, the blue sky and surrounding mountains create a vivid, symmetrical landscape. Second is the autumn foliage, which peaks from mid-to-late October, as the surrounding trees turn vibrant shades of yellow and red, creating a stunning contrast with the water. Lastly, the early morning mist provides a truly ethereal atmosphere. The interplay of light and mist makes this a premier destination for landscape photographers and nature observers.
The best months to visit are May and October. Specifically, from mid-October to late October, the area reaches its peak for autumn colors. For the most magical experience, we highly recommend visiting in the early morning. During this time, you can witness the phenomenon of mist rising from the water's surface and see the sunlight filtering through the trees, creating a serene and mystical atmosphere quite different from the bright daylight hours.
Visitors can enjoy peaceful strolls through nature and landscape photography around the pond. The site is very accessible, located only about a 5-minute walk from the Maime-no-ike Parking Lot. You can also incorporate a walk through the surrounding area, which includes other scenic ponds such as Shinobu-no-ike, Osome-ike, and Dojo-ike, making it an excellent part of a larger nature-themed itinerary.
The area around Maime-no-ike is rich with natural landmarks. As you walk from the parking lot, you will pass by Shinobu-no-ike, and you can also explore the nearby Osome-ike and Dojo-ike ponds. Additionally, the nearby Bansho Falls offers another wonderful way to experience the high-altitude scenery of the Norikura Kogen highlands.
As the pond is located at an altitude of 1,450m, temperatures can be significantly lower than in the valleys. We strongly recommend bringing warm clothing (such as a jacket), especially for early morning visits. While the paths are relatively well-maintained, there are natural uneven surfaces and steps, so comfortable walking shoes are essential.